The work of Max Pritchard speaks eloquently of its unassuming creator: deft, grounded and genuine.
It is appropriate in a time when the profession is going through a period of self-examination of its role and relevance in South Australia that we recognise a person who has quietly built a reputation and following as an architect of people and place, unaffected by the transient trends and fashions swirling around him.
Max Pritchard's work has been consistently recognised by his peers, having received many RAIA Merit and Commendation awards, and by interstate and overseas architecture critics and commentators.
The essence of his work is that it is as much about the pursuit of good outcomes as the pursuit of good architecture.
His houses can be the best examples of architectural excellence as well as affordable solutions for clients simply seeking more than the mainstream offerings of the housing industry.
His approach embodies an empathy and humility which in the eyes of the wider community is seen as lacking in our profession.
He grew up on Kangaroo Island where the requirements of the practical led to his discovery of the joy of creation through materials and construction.
After studying at the University of Adelaide in the 1960s he travelled overseas and discovered a world of indigenous housing and construction forms that so suited their physical environment that they influenced the approach to design and respect for climate that characterises his work today.
After a long apprenticeship spent on building sites in various trades and then in a small architectural office, Max stepped out on his own in 1986.
The first home he designed received an Award of Merit.
Eighteen years and countless awards later, he is the recipient of the Sir James Irwin RAIA SA Chapter President's Medal.
Max Pritchard Architects website
